Houston Rockets Reportedly Shopping Dwight Howard

The Houston Rockets are reportedly ready to part with Dwight Howard if a team can present them with an enticing offer before the Feb. 18 trade deadline.

Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical reported that the Rockets have contacted several teams about a potential trade for Howard, who is expected to opt-out of his contract at the end of the season to become an unrestricted free agent. General manager Daryl Morey started shopping Howard after the uncertainty about both sides' commitment regarding the matter grew.

The Rockets are reportedly working with the 30-year-old center's agent, Dan Fegan, on possible teams. Wojnarowski reported that Howard will most likely be seeking a maximum contract extension.

Howard, who has been subjected to trade rumors over the past few weeks, has repeatedly stated that he has not demanded a trade.

Fegan said to ESPN on Thursday, "I'm not privy to what the Rockets are doing or not doing with respect to Dwight Howard. What I can say, with 100 percent certainty, is that Dwight has not and has never asked the Rockets for a trade. And neither have I." ‎

Howard confirmed his agent's statement by saying, "I have not asked the Rockets to trade me, nor have I talked about right trades. I want to win. I want this situation to work. I chose this team. And I'm not running because we have been faced with some adversity."

Howard, an eight-time All-Star, signed with the Rockets in 2013. The contract included $88 million over four years with a player option for the 2016-17 season.

Howard is averaging 14.6 points and 12 rebounds.

The Rockets (27-28) are ninth in the Western Conference.